The Local Government Association (LGA) has drafted in troubleshooting agency Tribal MPC to conduct a root-and-branch review of its PR function as it gears up for the general election.

Tribal will review the size and responsibilities of the LGA’s 30-strong communications team.

LGA acting director of comms and strategy John Ransford said: ‘This is an important period in the run-up to the general election. Political parties are working out their aspirations for the next five years, and we want local democracy to be a part of that.’

The association’s comms team was led by Phil Swann until he left his role as director of communications and strategy in June to become a director at social science research centre The Tavistock Institute. His move was followed by the resignation of head of news Gillian Enlund in September.

Ransford said that in light of the departures it was the right time for a review. He will return to the position of director of education and social policy when Swann’s replacement is found.

Tribal is expected to submit the findings of its review to the LGA later this month.

The LGA protects the interests of the 300-plus local authorities across England and Wales. Its most recent campaigns have focused on the Gambling Bill, local authority budget capping and traveller site provision.